We conducted a study to assess the accuracy of Spatial CAD software in computing the mounting and deformity parameters. We mounted a two-ring construct on a sawbone tibia and accurately measured the mounting parameters of this frame. Then we obtained three sets of x-rays – orthogonal without magnification marker, orthogonal with magnification marker placed at the level of the bone and non orthogonal views – and put these images through software and obtained mounting and deformity parameters. Results were independently assessed and we found that the Spatial CAD™ software was accurate within 1 mm and 1 degree when orthogonal images with marker sphere placed at the bone level were used. Non-orthogonal images, with marker sphere, yielded accurate axial frame offset but other mounting parameters were at least 6 mm more than the actual measurements. Understandably angular measurements were different. In the third set of films we used frame hardware – Rancho Cube width (12 mm) as a calibrator. Since the cube was not in the same plane as the bone all measurements were way off actual measurements.Purpose of the study
Methods and end results
The safe and effective management of orthopaedic patients out of hours requires the communication of radiographs between junior residents and their non-resident seniors. Despite stringent guidelines issued by the Caldecott Guardian on the transmission of patient sensitive data, there is no data describing actual exchanges in the literature. The objective was t describe current trends in the transmission of patient sensitive data between resident Orthopaedic juniors and their non-resident seniors out of hours. The method was a Questionnaire survey polling Orthopaedic registrars in North London. Seventy-six (76) trainees participated in the survey. Fifty Three (53) trainees received radiographs for review off site. Forty-eight (48) reported receiving patient radiographs for review to their personal email account. 48% of these trainees reported that the images contained patient sensitive information. 40% of the trainees who received images to their personal email had a NHS mail account which was not used. Remote access to patient radiographs improves patient management out of hours. Although there is some awareness of Caldecott guidelines for the handling of patient sensitive electronic data, compliance is extremely poor. We recommend that all trainees who routinely handle patient sensitive data remotely acquire a free NHS mail account for receiving patient radiographs
